戏剧 Topic: Seniors and Recreational Activities: Toys
Date/Time: September 27th, 2022 (Tuesday), 9:30 am-10:30 am
Speaker: Ms. Lee Li Li (PhD candidate in Gerontology Medical Science and Consultant Psychologist)


Seniors and Toys

  • Toys for seniors are uncommon in Malaysia. For the time being, seniors are only able to select suitable toys from general toy stores.
  • The toys played by the seniors are known to have relations with their past experiences.
  • Toys for the elderly are suggested to be related to their social background. For example, instead of using the childish picture on the puzzles, it is advisable to use the elderly-relatable picture, such as classic cars and old buildings.
  • It is suggested that the elderly should not use more than 30% of children’s toys as its purpose is for the elderly to recall their childhood memories and their interaction with the children.

 
Benefits

  • Emotion regulation – reduces stress, loneliness, depression, and anxiety.
  • Physical and cognitive pushers – maintain physical activity, train fine and gross motor skills, activate brain cells, and slow down cognitive decline.
  • Social bridge – senior-senior, senior-adult, senior-children interaction; connect with the outside world.
    Examples:


  • Elderly able to perform and function well after playing with toys and games.

Types of Elderly Toys

1. Physical Toys

A. Types and Characteristics of Ready-Made Toys for The Elderly

Note: Although there is no specific store that sells toys for seniors in Malaysia, generally, the public is able to select toys based on the 5 categories above.


B. Types and Characteristics of Ready-Made Toys for Elderly with Dementia:

Note: Encourage family members to accompany the elderly with dementia to play with the toys to avoid accidents such as accidental eating.


2. Home/ Childhood Games

  • It uses imagination, creativity, and problem-solving skills to improve cognitive function.
  • Nature games – Leaves to make toys or musical instruments; sand castles.
  • Handicrafts – weaving, origami (kites, lanterns, etc.), pastries, ceramics, rattan, sewing, etc.
  • Childhood games – Musical chairs, simulated bowling, playing cards, mahjong, throw pillows, etc.


3. Technology Games

A. Classic Arcade Game

  • For example, the protagonist in Super Mario has to break through various obstacles to get to the destination.
  • Seniors are able to train their fine and gross motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and other skills through technology games.
  • Maintain focus, memory, and comprehension.
  • Keep your brain functioning and avoid agility or brain fog.
  • Recommended arcade game sites: Free Brain Games Online & Arcade Games (Avoid allowing the seniors to play violent and extreme games to avoid psychological impact)


B. Exergames

  • Commonly used for rehabilitation and nursing.
  • Different levels of activity difficulty.
  • In sitting or standing manner.
  • Studies have shown to improve physical functions such as cognition, balance, mobility, and resilience.
  • Exercise games are commonly used in psychotherapy for the elderly with depression and anxiety.


C. Virtual Reality Games

  • In order to promote the integration of the elderly into the community, through the use of virtual reality technology (Virtual Reality -VR), the elderly is encouraged to participate in sports and travel around the "world" at the same time.
  • Train muscle strength, balance, cognitive, and judgment skills.


Precautions Steps for Seniors to Play

• How to Play?

  • Does it affect the thoughts negatively? For instance, “I’m useless until I’m degraded to play child’s toys”.
  • Does playing with toys damage the dignity of the elderly? If so, consider gadgets and technology games, which can also bring the same function.
  • Accompany and pay attention to the demented elderly to play with toys and avoid accidental eating.
  • Will it effectively increase physical activity and gives you a sense of relief?

• Whom do They Play with?

  • While playing games with children, pay attention to the size of the toy to avoid accidental ingestion or other dangerous incidents.

• What to Play?

  • The type and size of toys should be selected according to the needs of the elderly.
  • 3 kinds of toys for the elderly (physical toys, home/childhood toys, and technology games) bring out emotional regulation, increase physical activities and socialization.


Notes: The above content was transcribed from our September 27th, 2022 Unilifesity’s Mental Health Lessons - Seniors and Recreational Activities: Toys. Please kindly contact our office if you would like to learn more or seek consultation. Thank you.